Graham Balfour facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Graham Balfour
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Sir Graham Balfour
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| Born | 2 December 1858 |
| Died | 26 October 1929 |
| Occupation | educational theorist |
Sir Graham Balfour (born December 2, 1858 – died October 26, 1929) was an important person in education. He was also an author. His father was Surgeon General Thomas Graham Balfour. Graham Balfour lived near his famous cousin, Robert Louis Stevenson, for some years. He later wrote a book about Stevenson's life. After writing books, he worked to improve education. He even managed the education system in Staffordshire, England.
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About Graham Balfour's Life
Early Life and Education
Graham Balfour was born in Chelsea, London, England. This was on December 2, 1858. He was the only son of his parents. His father, also named Thomas Graham Balfour, was a high-ranking doctor in the army. His mother was Georgina Prentice.
Even though he was often sick, Balfour went to Marlborough College. Later, he studied at Worcester College, Oxford. He earned degrees in subjects like ancient Greek and Latin. He was also very good at rifle shooting and won awards for it.
Career and Family Life
In 1885, Balfour became a lawyer. For a while, he tutored a young man named Frank Russell. They even traveled together to the United States.
By 1891, after his parents passed away, Balfour moved to Vailima, Samoa. He wanted to live closer to his cousin, the famous writer Robert Louis Stevenson. Stevenson died in 1894, and Balfour returned to England.
In 1896, he married Rhoda Brooke. They had two sons. One of their sons was Michael Balfour, who became a historian.
Improving Education in England
In the early 1900s, Graham Balfour became a key leader in education. He was the general director of education for Staffordshire. During this time, the entire education system in England was being updated.
Balfour created a new system for schools in Staffordshire. This system was so good that other parts of the country used it as an example. His work helped shape how schools were run across England.
He was honored for his work in 1917 and became a knight. He continued to work in government, always encouraging better education. Sir Graham Balfour passed away on October 26, 1929.
Balfour's Legacy
Sir Graham Balfour's work in education is still remembered. Two schools are named after him: Sir Graham Balfour School, located in Stafford, England, and another in Cambodia.
